The future of work: Tech Recruiting in 2025 - Building Sweden’s path to growth
Beyondo's Karin Björkman was invited to be on the panel discussion at the event, "The Future of Work: Tech Recruiting in 2025 - Building Sweden’s Path to Growth," organized by Tech Nordic Advocates , Northern Europe's largest tech startup ecosystem. It was a full house at Embassy House, filled with networking, food, drinks, and a fireside chat moderated by Tech Nordic Advocates Comms Manager, Barry O'Brien.
Expert panel (photo to the left: Alexandra M. Davis, Nafiye Bedirhanglu, Saaya Sorrells-Weatherford, Karin Björkman, Jonas Axelsson, and Barry O'Brien.
The panel of recruitment experts; Beyondo and Start up Recruitment, NexGen recruitment, and immigration experts; Emigreat and Clear Law discussed hiring trends for 2025, strategies to attract and retain global tech talent, the role of streamlined immigration processes, and the skills needed to drive innovation and growth.
Key Takeaways:
Upward Trend in Open Roles:
There's a positive trend with more open roles and an increase in hiring recruiters. This indicates a growing demand for tech talent and a healthy job market.
In-Demand Skills:
AI and Cyber Security skills are the hottest in-demand areas. Companies are increasingly looking for professionals with expertise in these fields to drive innovation and protect against cyber threats.
Visa Process Clarity:
Better clarity in the visa application process and how to retain your visa is required. Simplifying these processes can make Sweden more attractive to international talent.
"Brand Sweden":
Sweden is still seen as a great place for an improved quality of life for many people. This strong brand can be leveraged to attract global talent.
Learning from Others:
Sweden should look to Estonia and the Netherlands for inspiration in attracting and retaining international tech talent. These countries have implemented successful strategies that Sweden can learn from.
Onboarding for International Talent:
Companies should include Swedish lessons as part of the onboarding process for international talent. This can help new hires integrate more smoothly and feel more connected to their new environment.
Challenges Highlighted by the Panel:
Rigid Regulations & Slow Visas:
While countries like the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain are fast-tracking work permits, Sweden lags behind. This can deter international talent from choosing Sweden as their destination.
Retention Issues:
If spouses can’t work, housing is inaccessible, or integration support is lacking, top talent leaves. Many industries face critical skill shortages, yet international graduates struggle to secure work permits post-study.
Startup Hiring Struggles:
High tax burdens, salary gaps, and shifting policies make it difficult for early-stage companies to attract global talent. Startups need more support to compete with larger companies.
What Can Be Done?
The best countries and companies don’t wait—they stay ahead. By proactively investing in employer branding, visa support, and cultural integration, they create an environment where global talent thrives.
Mentioned Sources:
- TechSverige, 2024
- Riksrevisionen, 2024
"Sweden’s tech sector is projected to grow 18-20% by 2027 (TechSverige, 2024), but hiring globally remains a struggle."
The panel discussion made it clear that small shifts in hiring strategies could lead to significant change. By leveraging data to find untapped talent and challenging outdated hiring biases, we can address the visibility problem rather than a talent shortage.
